10 years of field experience, getting my degree now in Construction Management and really considering Estimating as a career path. I’m sick of being out in this cold all damn day, that office looks nice and warm! Good luck thanks for the insight
Not sure where you live… But, in Canada, companies are all hiring people that have done site work, & are willing to learn. Really interesting, well paid, & super steady work.
TLDR: The construction estimator goes through a typical day of checking emails, writing out tasks, following up with subcontractors, and preparing for an estimate review meeting, while also seeking advice from coworkers and learning from their boss. 00:00 🏗 Construction estimator starts the day with a 50-minute drive, checks emails, writes out tasks, and follows up with subcontractors for project bids. 01:38 🏗 Construction estimator starts the day by asking a coworker for their thoughts on estimating. 01:55 💼 Construction estimator goes through project plans and does takeoffs, then marks off completed tasks on a list. 02:24 🏗 Boss helped me understand what to do in certain situations, now I need to fix it and get ready for lunch. 02:54 💼 Construction estimator prepares for an estimate review meeting and ensures all tabs and scopes are accounted for, while also sharing a quick tip for impressing in the construction industry.
Im a flatwork estimator for our concrete/asphalt company. Its a mix of field work and office work for me. Although since its a small company im constantly working with insurance companies as well, typing up proposals, cois/bonds, blah blah blah, and im the sales guy. Very underpaid at only like $23 an hour but its my first year here, my first job, and I only had an associates. I was basically mentored into this position but im surpassing all my co-workers who are making triple of what I make because of my tech/it skills. I think Im gonna milk knowledge out of this company as much as I can and try to estimate for another company for a bigger salary bump or even be an operations manager.
Try to negotiate pay before leaving. After you get very good at the job show them the average salary for your position in the area . They may give you the raise because it’s cheaper than replacing.
Your work as an estimator looks complicated with all the numbers and figures you got to do with. Wow you really stepped up your game on this. Keep doing what you do man that awesome 😎
Fun video! I liked the juggling intermission :). I'm a software engineer working on a construction ai startup. I'm trying to learn about estimation. Cody, would you be open to a quick interview with me and my co-founders? We'd love to learn a bit more!
What take-off software do you use? What estimating software do you use? What project management software? What accounting software? I am an estimator and I’m always asking what software people use.
Great questions! In the realm of quantity take-off software, several options are available, such as Bluebeam, dogview, On Screen Takeoff, PlanSwift, Autodesk Takeoff, and more. Additionally, PDF software can now be utilized for QTO, depending on your configuration preferences. For estimating purposes, notable solutions include RsMeans, CostX, Timberline, and others. Interestingly, Microsoft Excel remains a widely used tool for estimating due to its flexibility and customizable features to align with specific needs. When it comes to project management and accounting, the choice of software varies among organizations. Some opt for web-based solutions like PMWeb, while others combine MSProject with additional software. It's advisable to explore available software options in your country, trial a few, and select the one that best aligns with your requirements. If you find existing software solutions too limiting, you also have the option to commission a software company to develop a bespoke solution tailored to your needs. Ultimately, the key consideration is identifying the software available in the market that aligns most closely with your specific requirements. Best of luck in your selection process. P.S. Feel free to explore my page for valuable resources on estimating and cost engineering.
Hey Cody ! Can I get some advice from you I got my Construction Management degree and the 1st couple of years It was hard for me to land a job due to lack of experience but now I want to see if I can start looking for a construction job again how do I get back into estamating when its been so long ? Also others can pitch in for advice thanks
I'm now retired and spent 40 years working as a senior estimator for a major Contractor in the UK preparing bids for all types of building projects and all types of contractual arrangements (partnership, two stage, single stage. competitive, PFI) to a value of 200 million. Using the UK as a reference be prepared to work a 15 hour day, sometimes 6 days a week. And don't get frustrated when you get lumbered with changes to the tender documents, when the Client can't make up his mind on what he really wants. Another source of frustration is when you can't get a quote, or can but the quotes are non compliant and then you have to bottom out the quotes but the subcontractors can't be contacted. Then you have to guess their price. Then after the tender has been submitted the Client wants a 15% price reduction abd you get sucked in to find a solution which might go on for a year, or two years if you are pricing a new hospital. And you might have to price another couple of jobs at the same time. Coping with all of this will make you a master of your own destiny and able to identify and manage all the rubbish and nonsense coming your way and make you totally street wise.
It's a pleasure if I can help someone. I only know how major projects are won in the UK. It's very much dog eat dog. All come about with design and build where Clients demand confidence at the bid stage that the final cost doesn't go up.
@TimothyScottTimothyCloudScott frustrating isn't it. And the PQS is absolutely adamant his budget price he set for the Client is right and your price is a rip off. And he might be offended that you would have the audacity to question his lack of knowledge even though it is crystal clear he doesn't know what he's talking about. I bet he doesn't understand how your prelims can be so high.
@@TrevorWilliams-fq8mg this Adj is so sure that the site is 49 mile away and within range to not charge for travel when Google clearly shows its 61.8 at the shortest distance and I’m going to need them out there for an month and a half he was so adamant about everything i replied to all 15 line of revisions and he replied with a response back of 23 out of the 15 and I got 3 other estimates to build and this job is 117,000 but I closed out two on Monday one for 40k
I’m interested in the estimating field. I have a degree in math and have been a math teacher the last several years. I’m planning to take a few courses on estimating. Do you think my experience is relevant enough to get into the field?
Hey Cody, nice job! Keep it up! Good luck with your work! I hope to be a cost estimator too. And eventually record my mini-vlog just like this one :) I subscribed by the way, wishing you to reach your goal of 1000 subscribers very sooooon!
Hello sir.im an estimator from Kenya with 6 year experience. Would be glad if you can offer me a remote job(Taking off, Bills of quantities, valuations,final accounts,etc
Hey I’m civil engineer and I have 4 years experience in cost estimating of USA based projects and now I’m in Perth, Australia and I need a job as a estimation engineer so can you help me to hunt a job ?
I just graduated from college 3 months ago, and tomorrow is my first day working at a shipyard as an estimator, any suggestions on my first day of work tomorrow? Or any tips and tricks? Thx mate.
For over a decade, I have been engaged in the field of cost engineering. A pivotal lesson from a teacher resonates with me: "If you don't understand how it's built, you cannot accurately cost it." This underscores the perpetual learning curve associated with construction materials, methods, and processes, spanning both design and project management facets on both client and contractor sides. In your current sector or industry, commit to continuous learning. Focus on gaining expertise in one or two software tools. A decade ago, I chose to delve into Autodesk Revit for modeling and quantity takeoff, a decision that proved to be immensely beneficial, especially considering that Building Information Modeling (BIM) was still in its early stages. In terms of productivity and cost considerations, maintain a discerning eye on available resources. Platforms like RsMeans and BNi are valuable, with a personal preference for the former. Prioritize information quality, placing emphasis on a compliant contractor bid, analyzing historical projects, and consulting published resources. Expand your knowledge base by referring to companion books, including those covering building codes, Masterformat, Uniformat cost classification, and ASTM standards relevant to cost engineering. Cultivate mastery in Microsoft Excel, a versatile tool that continues to be indispensable. P.S. I invite you to explore my page for a curated collection of estimating and cost engineering resources.
Did you got job without any experience… i am studying construction engineering technician diploma and i want to go in this field… so how much is the competition and how hard is it to find a job for a fresher without any experience?
Microsoft Excel is a versatile tool that continues to be indispensable. I used if every day. P.S. I invite you to explore my page for a curated collection of estimating and cost engineering resources.
Certainly,Your experience resonates with my own journey in succeeding in cost engineering over the past decade. Assuming you already possess an understanding of HVAC design, a critical aspect for preliminary cost estimation, it's now essential to delve into the intricacies of the cost estimation processes. Start by acquiring key references, including Masterformat, Building Code, Mechanical Code, HVAC/Sheet Metal Construction Manual, and ASTM standards related to building economics. Two particularly useful documents are "Mechanical Estimating Manual: Sheet Metal, Piping, and Plumbing" by Wendes Systems and "Mechanical Estimating Methods" by RsMeans. Platforms like this RUclips channel can serve as a form of mentorship and coaching, guiding you through the nuances of cost engineering. For additional resources, I recommend visiting my page dedicated to estimating and cost engineering.
How do you find Bluebeam Revu? The more I learn about estimating, the more I understand there is no shortcut to the takeoff side of things. How do you do takeoffs for new products you've not come across before and how would you quantify the materials required? For instance, I am an Industrial Cladder from the UK. There are literally thousands of different wall systems with all sorts of different fixing and supporting methods. How would you quote a complex wall cladding project? Many thanks, Tom
Well we follow what the specs say about it. All of the hard bid projects should have them. Usually there is a manufacturer listed or at least materials called out. We then can go to the manufacturer and experienced subs for pricing on it. Since I am not a sub, my takeoffs are just for reference or backup. I imagine the sub has a more specific software than bluebeam to calculate special systems.
@@splitloopgaming3523only those who haven't done the job say the work is easy. Depending on employer, it can be manageable to insanity. Many small companies have 0 experience using an estimator and expect them to run their company. So be careful. Stick to medium to large employers.
Understanding the construction process is pivotal to accurately estimating costs, highlighting the continuous learning curve in construction materials, methods, and processes. This involves aspects of design and project management, both from the client's and contractor's perspectives. To gain this understanding, pursuing a college education in construction technology or securing a job related to building construction is recommended. This hands-on experience provides insights into "how it's built." While self-learning is possible, having a mentor is highly beneficial. Platforms like RUclips, including channels like this one, can serve as a form of mentorship or coaching.Considering various factors, it's evident that having a mentor significantly enhances the learning process. My page offers valuable resources on estimating and cost engineering that can further support your journey.
Straight out of collage estimator, I see a very rough 4 years in your near future. Keep at it and great introduction to estimating video. Tip: don’t view the end of 8ths as the last stretch, it’s the best time of day to begin the following day as an estimator. Also the 8 hrs will turn into 10-12 as you move further away from the PE type of roll
![Cody Johnson - I'm Gonna Love You (with Carrie Underwood) [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/yy9PuYMU29g/mqdefault.jpg)
10 years of field experience, getting my degree now in Construction Management and really considering Estimating as a career path. I’m sick of being out in this cold all damn day, that office looks nice and warm! Good luck thanks for the insight
One of my coworkers is asking about "construction bidding software" and I can't find anything of the like, do you know what I'd be looking for?
constructconnect, autodesk, etc@@carlcarl167
Not sure where you live…
But, in Canada, companies are all hiring people that have done site work, & are willing to learn.
Really interesting, well paid, & super steady work.
@@carlcarl167”take-off” software variant.
@@robmckay875 u working in construction Field
TLDR: The construction estimator goes through a typical day of checking emails, writing out tasks, following up with subcontractors, and preparing for an estimate review meeting, while also seeking advice from coworkers and learning from their boss.
00:00 🏗 Construction estimator starts the day with a 50-minute drive, checks emails, writes out tasks, and follows up with subcontractors for project bids.
01:38 🏗 Construction estimator starts the day by asking a coworker for their thoughts on estimating.
01:55 💼 Construction estimator goes through project plans and does takeoffs, then marks off completed tasks on a list.
02:24 🏗 Boss helped me understand what to do in certain situations, now I need to fix it and get ready for lunch.
02:54 💼 Construction estimator prepares for an estimate review meeting and ensures all tabs and scopes are accounted for, while also sharing a quick tip for impressing in the construction industry.
Im a flatwork estimator for our concrete/asphalt company. Its a mix of field work and office work for me. Although since its a small company im constantly working with insurance companies as well, typing up proposals, cois/bonds, blah blah blah, and im the sales guy.
Very underpaid at only like $23 an hour but its my first year here, my first job, and I only had an associates. I was basically mentored into this position but im surpassing all my co-workers who are making triple of what I make because of my tech/it skills.
I think Im gonna milk knowledge out of this company as much as I can and try to estimate for another company for a bigger salary bump or even be an operations manager.
Work for another large general and jump every few years. The smaller companies are good to gain experience but they usually won't keep you for long.
Try to negotiate pay before leaving. After you get very good at the job show them the average salary for your position in the area . They may give you the raise because it’s cheaper than replacing.
Your work as an estimator looks complicated with all the numbers and figures you got to do with. Wow you really stepped up your game on this. Keep doing what you do man that awesome 😎
Why is college necessary to perform these tasks? Adequate otj training should suffice.
Fun video! I liked the juggling intermission :). I'm a software engineer working on a construction ai startup. I'm trying to learn about estimation. Cody, would you be open to a quick interview with me and my co-founders? We'd love to learn a bit more!
Hi Cody! I'm inspired how you do a basic day of being an estimator! Keep up and show us more knowledge, we want to seek more from you! God Bless.
Construction students my dream job would be PM that travels to different city
What a waste of my life minutes this video was.
Please upload more videos, im New to the industry and im 25 from TX. Any tips or advice for someone with 0 experience?
bro is trying to hard with his work fit xd xd xd xd
Keep them coming big boy 💪
What take-off software do you use? What estimating software do you use? What project management software? What accounting software? I am an estimator and I’m always asking what software people use.
On screen takeoff is best for takeoff. But there is also planswift and costx. But costx is both for takeoff and estimate
Great questions!
In the realm of quantity take-off software, several options are available, such as Bluebeam, dogview, On Screen Takeoff, PlanSwift, Autodesk Takeoff, and more. Additionally, PDF software can now be utilized for QTO, depending on your configuration preferences.
For estimating purposes, notable solutions include RsMeans, CostX, Timberline, and others. Interestingly, Microsoft Excel remains a widely used tool for estimating due to its flexibility and customizable features to align with specific needs.
When it comes to project management and accounting, the choice of software varies among organizations. Some opt for web-based solutions like PMWeb, while others combine MSProject with additional software. It's advisable to explore available software options in your country, trial a few, and select the one that best aligns with your requirements.
If you find existing software solutions too limiting, you also have the option to commission a software company to develop a bespoke solution tailored to your needs.
Ultimately, the key consideration is identifying the software available in the market that aligns most closely with your specific requirements. Best of luck in your selection process.
P.S. Feel free to explore my page for valuable resources on estimating and cost engineering.
Hey Cody ! Can I get some advice from you I got my Construction Management degree and the 1st couple of years It was hard for me to land a job due to lack of experience but now I want to see if I can start looking for a construction job again how do I get back into estamating when its been so long ? Also others can pitch in for advice thanks
HAHAHAHAH this is a typical day? You're the furthest thing from a construction professional there ever will be. Work hard to finish your bid tabs ;)
I want to work as an online estimator. is it possible to work remotely?
Yea! But you may need to get experience first in an office before you do that.
Have both office and site experience, currently working at the office. What do you recommend for some one who's looking for online estimator jobs?
I'm now retired and spent 40 years working as a senior estimator for a major Contractor in the UK preparing bids for all types of building projects and all types of contractual arrangements (partnership, two stage, single stage. competitive, PFI) to a value of 200 million. Using the UK as a reference be prepared to work a 15 hour day, sometimes 6 days a week. And don't get frustrated when you get lumbered with changes to the tender documents, when the Client can't make up his mind on what he really wants. Another source of frustration is when you can't get a quote, or can but the quotes are non compliant and then you have to bottom out the quotes but the subcontractors can't be contacted. Then you have to guess their price. Then after the tender has been submitted the Client wants a 15% price reduction abd you get sucked in to find a solution which might go on for a year, or two years if you are pricing a new hospital. And you might have to price another couple of jobs at the same time. Coping with all of this will make you a master of your own destiny and able to identify and manage all the rubbish and nonsense coming your way and make you totally street wise.
Thanks for this great advice! Sounds like you really know your stuff.
It's a pleasure if I can help someone. I only know how major projects are won in the UK. It's very much dog eat dog. All come about with design and build where Clients demand confidence at the bid stage that the final cost doesn't go up.
Just had one of them day today can definitely be a lot
@TimothyScottTimothyCloudScott frustrating isn't it. And the PQS is absolutely adamant his budget price he set for the Client is right and your price is a rip off. And he might be offended that you would have the audacity to question his lack of knowledge even though it is crystal clear he doesn't know what he's talking about. I bet he doesn't understand how your prelims can be so high.
@@TrevorWilliams-fq8mg this Adj is so sure that the site is 49 mile away and within range to not charge for travel when Google clearly shows its 61.8 at the shortest distance and I’m going to need them out there for an month and a half he was so adamant about everything i replied to all 15 line of revisions and he replied with a response back of 23 out of the 15 and I got 3 other estimates to build and this job is 117,000 but I closed out two on Monday one for 40k
checks some emails and let the computer do the work for you. most of your job is commutations with the e sub contractors
I’m interested in the estimating field. I have a degree in math and have been a math teacher the last several years. I’m planning to take a few courses on estimating. Do you think my experience is relevant enough to get into the field?
I'm not ready for the master class but nice work. I'll have to get back to swinging that sledgehammer though ❤
Hey Cody, nice job! Keep it up! Good luck with your work! I hope to be a cost estimator too. And eventually record my mini-vlog just like this one :) I subscribed by the way, wishing you to reach your goal of 1000 subscribers very sooooon!
Hello Cody, good video, I am an electrical company located in Miami and I wanted to be able to talk by phone with you if that is possible, thank you
Hello sir.im an estimator from Kenya with 6 year experience. Would be glad if you can offer me a remote job(Taking off, Bills of quantities, valuations,final accounts,etc
Hey I’m civil engineer and I have 4 years experience in cost estimating of USA based projects and now I’m in Perth, Australia and I need a job as a estimation engineer so can you help me to hunt a job ?
Bro at 2:00 you look all stressed out. lol 😅
And then have this form memorized, and flash it for like .0653 seconds 😂
Hey. do you do construction estimates any company? I am looking for someone that does estimates
hi cody...is therte any chance to apply online as your assistant estimator...i need a work. i am from the philippine and a C.E.
Hey Cody. What exactly is the master format?
I just graduated from college 3 months ago, and tomorrow is my first day working at a shipyard as an estimator, any suggestions on my first day of work tomorrow? Or any tips and tricks? Thx mate.
The most important thing is to like who you work with and be friendly, good luck!
@@CodyCockroft thank you very much, i appreciate it
For over a decade, I have been engaged in the field of cost engineering. A pivotal lesson from a teacher resonates with me: "If you don't understand how it's built, you cannot accurately cost it." This underscores the perpetual learning curve associated with construction materials, methods, and processes, spanning both design and project management facets on both client and contractor sides.
In your current sector or industry, commit to continuous learning. Focus on gaining expertise in one or two software tools. A decade ago, I chose to delve into Autodesk Revit for modeling and quantity takeoff, a decision that proved to be immensely beneficial, especially considering that Building Information Modeling (BIM) was still in its early stages.
In terms of productivity and cost considerations, maintain a discerning eye on available resources. Platforms like RsMeans and BNi are valuable, with a personal preference for the former. Prioritize information quality, placing emphasis on a compliant contractor bid, analyzing historical projects, and consulting published resources.
Expand your knowledge base by referring to companion books, including those covering building codes, Masterformat, Uniformat cost classification, and ASTM standards relevant to cost engineering. Cultivate mastery in Microsoft Excel, a versatile tool that continues to be indispensable.
P.S. I invite you to explore my page for a curated collection of estimating and cost engineering resources.
Did you got job without any experience… i am studying construction engineering technician diploma and i want to go in this field… so how much is the competition and how hard is it to find a job for a fresher without any experience?
Bro is still barely chillin at 11 am. The boys on site been grinding since 7am
Working smarter vs working harder 🤷🏼♂️
i m estimator using planswift for takeoff
You work as an estimator!?!!?! Very nice!
Yes sir! Hope you’re doing well over there.
@@CodyCockroft is interesting living in college station, but not going to school!
NPC
i am estimater for construction i am using excel of ms office for culculation of each item
what aobut u ?
Microsoft Excel is a versatile tool that continues to be indispensable. I used if every day.
P.S. I invite you to explore my page for a curated collection of estimating and cost engineering resources.
can a person with mechanical engineering background with experience in mechanical design work in HVAC construction estimation
Yes.
Certainly,Your experience resonates with my own journey in succeeding in cost engineering over the past decade.
Assuming you already possess an understanding of HVAC design, a critical aspect for preliminary cost estimation, it's now essential to delve into the intricacies of the cost estimation processes. Start by acquiring key references, including Masterformat, Building Code, Mechanical Code, HVAC/Sheet Metal Construction Manual, and ASTM standards related to building economics. Two particularly useful documents are "Mechanical Estimating Manual: Sheet Metal, Piping, and Plumbing" by Wendes Systems and "Mechanical Estimating Methods" by RsMeans.
Platforms like this RUclips channel can serve as a form of mentorship and coaching, guiding you through the nuances of cost engineering. For additional resources, I recommend visiting my page dedicated to estimating and cost engineering.
How do you find Bluebeam Revu? The more I learn about estimating, the more I understand there is no shortcut to the takeoff side of things.
How do you do takeoffs for new products you've not come across before and how would you quantify the materials required? For instance, I am an Industrial Cladder from the UK. There are literally thousands of different wall systems with all sorts of different fixing and supporting methods. How would you quote a complex wall cladding project?
Many thanks, Tom
Well we follow what the specs say about it. All of the hard bid projects should have them. Usually there is a manufacturer listed or at least materials called out. We then can go to the manufacturer and experienced subs for pricing on it. Since I am not a sub, my takeoffs are just for reference or backup. I imagine the sub has a more specific software than bluebeam to calculate special systems.
Bluebeam is for viewing drawings and rough takeoff. You should be using something like onscreen takeoff for complex projects.
This was awesome! I am about to start my new job as an Estimator and I liked your POV on it.
Best of luck!
@@CodyCockroft can I get a job like this with an level 4 nvq in construction management?
How is it going? I'm starting my new position in two weeks
The car clip after lunch 😂
What was your major?
Construction Science
What degree do you need for the be a estimator?
You don’t need one
Can I be an Estimator? No work experience. How difficult is it from 1-10 scale?
8
Get an apprenticeship
@@farizcorporation3446 lmfao. half that at worst
@@splitloopgaming3523only those who haven't done the job say the work is easy. Depending on employer, it can be manageable to insanity. Many small companies have 0 experience using an estimator and expect them to run their company. So be careful. Stick to medium to large employers.
Understanding the construction process is pivotal to accurately estimating costs, highlighting the continuous learning curve in construction materials, methods, and processes. This involves aspects of design and project management, both from the client's and contractor's perspectives.
To gain this understanding, pursuing a college education in construction technology or securing a job related to building construction is recommended. This hands-on experience provides insights into "how it's built." While self-learning is possible, having a mentor is highly beneficial. Platforms like RUclips, including channels like this one, can serve as a form of mentorship or coaching.Considering various factors, it's evident that having a mentor significantly enhances the learning process. My page offers valuable resources on estimating and cost engineering that can further support your journey.
Straight out of collage estimator, I see a very rough 4 years in your near future. Keep at it and great introduction to estimating video.
Tip: don’t view the end of 8ths as the last stretch, it’s the best time of day to begin the following day as an estimator. Also the 8 hrs will turn into 10-12 as you move further away from the PE type of roll